Violent Attack on Hindu Temple in Canada by Khalistani Supporters; Trudeau Calls for Peace as Viral Video Surfaces
On Sunday, Khalistani supporters attacked people gathered at the Hindu Sabha Temple in Brampton, Canada. The attackers were carrying Khalistani flags and assaulted the attendees with sticks. A video of this incident has gone viral on social media.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has condemned the incident. He said on social media-
Today’s violence at the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton is unacceptable. Every Canadian has the right to practice his religion freely and safely.
Political Tensions Rise in Canada Following Attack on Hindus
Following the attack on Hindus, Canada’s political climate has heated up. Opposition leaders are criticizing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government. Pierre Poilievre, leader of the opposition, stated that violence against worshippers in a Hindu temple is unacceptable.
He emphasized that all Canadians should have the freedom to practice their faith peacefully. The Conservative Party condemns this incident, with Poilievre pledging to unite people against lawlessness and put an end to it.
The atmosphere in the area remains tense, with a large police presence deployed. Police Chief Duraiappa has appealed for calm, stating that violence and crime will not be tolerated.
Reactions to the Attack
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown
“Religious freedom in Canada is a fundamental value. Everyone should feel safe at their places of worship. I strongly condemn any form of violence outside a place of worship. The police will do everything within their jurisdiction to maintain peace and hold the perpetrators of violence accountable.”
Nepean MP Chandra Arya
“Khalistani extremists have crossed the line, reflecting the shameless rise of violent extremism in Canada. The attack on worshippers in the temple shows how deep extremism has taken root in Canada. Under the guise of freedom of speech, Khalistani extremists have been given free rein. Hindu Canadians must come forward to defend themselves and fight for their rights. They need to put pressure on their leaders.”
Toronto MP Kevin Vuong
“The attack on Hindu Canadians is concerning. Canada has become a safe haven for Khalistani extremists. Our leaders have failed to protect Hindus. We all have the right to worship peacefully.”
Hindu Canadian Foundation
“Khalistani terrorists are attacking the Hindu Sabha Temple. Attacks are occurring against children, women, and men. All of this is happening incited by supporters of Khalistani politicians.”
Concerns Among Hindus and Indians Due to Khalistani Supporters
The Indian community has been increasingly worried about the targeting of Hindu temples and community members in Canada. Over the past few years, there have been instances of vandalism at Hindu temples in the Greater Toronto Area, British Columbia, and elsewhere in Canada.
India’s Allegations: PM Trudeau Engaging in Anti-India Politics for Votes
Relations between India and Canada have been deteriorating for over a year, starting with the assassination of pro-Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June 2020. Last September, Prime Minister Trudeau accused an Indian agency of being involved in Nijjar’s murder during a parliamentary session.
Subsequently, Trudeau alleged the involvement of Indian diplomats in the Nijjar murder case on October 13. In response, India recalled six of its diplomats, including Sanjay Verma. India claims that the allegations made by the Canadian government are baseless, stating that Canada has not shared any evidence with the Indian government. They assert that Trudeau’s administration is intentionally attempting to tarnish India’s image for political gain.
During a press conference last month, India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated that PM Trudeau’s animosity towards India has been ongoing for a long time, highlighting that his cabinet includes individuals openly associated with extremist organizations.
